Why Celtic have the edge over Rangers despite derby defeats

Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew believes the Hoops possess a crucial quality that could give them the edge over Rangers in this season’s Scottish Premiership title race.

Despite admitting he would currently make Derek McInnes’ side favourites when the two sides meet again, Mulgrew remains unconvinced by Rangers’ ability to consistently grind out results against other opposition.

Rangers have already beaten Celtic twice this season, but their recent draw with Dundee has raised further questions about their consistency.

Mulgrew, however, believes Celtic possess a winning mentality that could prove decisive over the course of a demanding league campaign, particularly when games remain finely balanced heading into the closing stages.

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Mulgrew said: “They’ve done it that many times last year under Martin O’Neill. I just feel that they’ve got that mentality to score at the last minute, and I’m still questioning Rangers, whether they do.

“It’s funny, when I think of Celtic playing Rangers tomorrow, I think Rangers are favourites in my mind. But when I think of Celtic playing any other team, and Rangers playing any other team, I always fancy Celtic to win. And Rangers, I’m not sure, convinced they can win loads of games away.

“I think if you put it down to the last ten minutes of a game, Celtic and Rangers both drawing, just say away to Dundee United or any away game, right now as it stands, I would fancy Celtic to go and get that last-minute winner. I feel that they’ve got that.”